Saw Palmetto

Saw Palmetto

Name: Serenoa Serrulata (Saw Palmetto Berries)

Part used: The berries.

Active constituents: The liposterolic (fat-soluble) extract of saw palmetto provides concentrated amounts of free fatty acids and sterols. One study with a saw palmetto extract suggests that it reduces the amount of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) (an active form of testosterone) binding in the part of the prostate surrounding the urethra (the tube carrying urine from the bladder).1 Test tube studies also suggest that saw palmetto weakly inhibits the action of 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to DHT.2 In test tubes, saw palmetto also inhibits the actions of growth factors and inflammatory substances that may contribute to Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Saw Palmetto is considered to be the number one treatment for prostate enlargement, and the symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate such as: urinary hesitancy, abnormal urgency and frequency to urinate, urination at night, post-void dribbling, weak urinary stream; incomplete emptying of the bladder; and painful urination.

Interestingly, saw palmetto can be used by women suffering polycystic ovary syndrome (pco) who have high androgen (male hormone levels).

Saw Palmetto Combines well with Nettle root.

Should my health care professional be advised before I take Saw Palmetto?

It is always wise to consult a health care professional if you have any of the above symptoms, or If you are currently taking medication for an enlarged prostate.

How should I take this herb?

Take Saw Palmetto capsules or tablets by mouth. Swallow the capsules with a large drink of water. For the best bioavailability and if you have a sensitive stomach, it is often recommended that you take Saw Palmetto as a tincture. You can take Saw Palmetto with or without food.

What medicines may interact with Saw Palmetto?

None are known to date.

What side effects may I notice from taking Saw Palmetto?

Side effects from correctly administered Saw Palmetto usage are thought to be rare, however very occasionally some may exibit digestive discomfort should this occur stop usage and report it to your health care professional if symptoms are continuing or bothersome).

Cautions and contraindications: Do not take Saw Palmetto during pregnancy and breast-feeding.

References

1. Di Silverio F, Monti S, Sciarra A, et al. Effects of long-term treatment with Serenoa repens (Permixon®) on the concentrations and regional distribution of androgens and epidermal growth factor in benign prostatic hyperplasia. Prostate 1998;37:77-83.
2. Strauch G, Perles P, Vergult G, et al. Comparison of finasteride (Proscar®) and Serenoa repens (Permixon®) in the inhibition of 5-alpha reductase in healthy male volunteers. Eur Urol 1994;26:247-52.

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